Amygdalin

Amygdalin is the primary safety concern. Cyanogenic glycoside confined to seeds; enzymatic hydrolysis yields hydrogen cyanide. Flesh and flowers are safe.

Animal studies have confirmed the anti-tussive activity of amygdalin, with one study showing significant suppression of capsaicin-induced cough in guinea pigs at doses of 5–20 mg/kg administered intraperitoneally. However, safety concerns limit clinical investigation; a 2015 Cochrane review found insufficient evidence to support amygdalin (laetrile) for any therapeutic indication and documented cases of cyanide toxicity at high oral doses. In the context of loquat leaf decoctions, prolonged boiling substantially degrades amygdalin, reducing toxicity risk.

Amygdalin is the primary glycoside in peach kernel used in TCM blood-moving formulas. Animal studies demonstrate anti-inflammatory and mild fibrinolytic effects.